Did you know you don’t need a referral to see a physical therapist?
Not everyone is aware that if you are experiencing pain or an injury, you can go directly to your physical therapist. It makes no difference whether you’re dealing with an old or new problem. You can schedule an appointment with one of our therapists to get help as soon as possible.
Direct Access in the medical community refers to the ability to see a physical therapist whenever you want without obtaining permission from your physician or medical practitioner.
Physical therapists routinely assess and treat patients without the recommendation of a physician. You can reach us at GoodLife Physical Therapy in Orland Park, Homer Glen & Evergreen Park, IL, and we’ll schedule your appointment right away! Direct Access eliminates the need to waste time waiting for a doctor’s appointment, then waiting for a referral to physical therapy and another appointment with the therapist.
Another advantage of seeing your physical therapist right away is the cost savings. Rather than having a copayment to see your primary doctor, another copay if you are referred to a specialist, and then finally being referred to physical therapy, you can save money by seeing our team directly.
Direct Access is all about being able to make your own decisions without being constrained by outdated rules. It gives you control over your healthcare, allowing you to focus on your recovery rather than waiting for another appointment to get the help you need right away!
Direct Access also allows you to save money, schedule appointments when you want, and hasten your recovery so you can get relief and get back to doing what you love. If you have any questions about Direct Access or want to make an appointment with a physical therapist, call GoodLife Physical Therapy in Orland Park, Homer Glen & Evergreen Park, IL right away!
Common Questions about Direct Access
Although the term “direct access” has been around for decades, not everyone outside of the physical therapy profession is familiar with it or understands what it means. The traditional healthcare model has been updated to improve patient access to physical therapy services.
There is a lot of evidence that early or direct access to physical therapy reduces waiting time, lowers costs, improves patient and healthcare system convenience, and, most importantly, improves recovery time.
Direct scheduling with your physical therapists is essential in all areas of physical therapy, including outpatient physical therapy, pediatrics, private home care, school districts, hospitals, and even sports fields. Direct Access is far more common than the general public, and other healthcare providers realize.
Only a few states had laws allowing patients to go directly to their physical therapist for a long time; now, Direct Access is available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. While the program still has some limitations, Direct Access laid the groundwork for future regulations that will ensure you get the care you need when you need it.
What effect do direct access laws have on health insurance?
Unfortunately, the health insurance industry is changing and varies by carrier. Direct Access accepts a wide range of private health insurance carriers, but it is always a good idea to double-check what your insurance covers!
Physical therapists maintain constant communication with your doctor. Our physical therapist submits your care plan for review and approval by a registered doctor. Medicare is a major insurance provider, and fortunately, Medicare will cover the cost of your physical therapist’s treatment plan.
Having Direct Access to Physical Therapy has numerous advantages. Patients, for example, report higher levels of satisfaction when they receive physical therapy through Direct Access rather than through physician referral. Furthermore, patients who received physical therapy through direct access rather than referral had better outcomes at discharge.
Make an appointment with GoodLife Physical Therapy today.
Direct Access is transforming your ability to choose when to see your physical therapist while also improving your access to healthcare. Schedule an appointment with an Orland Park, Homer Glen or Evergreen Park, IL physical therapist if you or someone you care about would like to learn more about Direct Access to physical therapy or how physical therapy can help you with any condition you are dealing with.
